SureSmile® FAQ’s
What’s the average length of SureSmile treatment?
SureSmile has been shown to straighten teeth in 40% less time than conventional orthodontics. For example, treatments estimated to take two years with traditional orthodontics may take only 12 to 15 months using SureSmile. A number of factors can affect treatment time and your actual length of treatment may vary.
How much does SureSmile cost?
The cost of orthodontic treatment is determined on a case-by-case basis and depends on many factors, including the complexity of your treatment.
Is my orthodontist still in control of my treatment?
Absolutely. In fact, with SureSmile your orthodontist has even greater control of treatment, thanks to 3-D tools and the accuracy they bring to treatment planning.
Is SureSmile treatment really less painful than traditional orthodontic treatment?
The pain patients experience during orthodontic treatment is a result of changes in pressure caused by adjusting wires. Patients who use SureSmile treatment experience less pain, because fewer wire adjustments and changes are required.
Is there a risk of damaging my teeth because they’re moving faster?
SureSmile archwires don’t move teeth any faster than conventional archwires. (In fact, the same materials are used for conventional archwires.) The time difference is due to the computerized treatment plan, made possible through 3-D imaging. Instead of a continually evolving plan with frequent adjustments, your teeth move along a more direct path to their target positions. Your overall treatment is shorter due to the shorter distance the teeth have to travel.
How does the OraScanner work?
It uses a flashing white light, much like a digital camera, to take 3-D pictures and send the images to the computer.
How does SureSmile Treatment Planning Software work?
Using SureSmile Treatment Planning Software, your orthodontist can evaluate treatment options, visualize the desired end result and map the path of tooth movement. The plan moves teeth in the most direct path to the target without the need for multiple adjustments. The software also allows your orthodontist to digitally evaluate progress during treatment.
What are SureSmile Shape Memory Alloy archwires?
The alloy used to make SureSmile archwires isn’t new. Orthodontists have used the material in straight wires for the last decade. But until the introduction of our robotic process, they haven’t been able to shape archwires into customized prescriptions because of the high temperature required for bending the alloy. When robotic hands bend the hot material into customized prescriptions, the archwires deliver precise, constant force to move teeth more directly into target positions.
How does robotic wire-bending make my treatment more precise?
Robotic hands bring your individual treatment plan to life by precisely bending custom archwires to your unique prescription. The result of this process is increased performance from each archwire and maximum control of movement.